Rudy Gobert is experiencing a slow start to the 2026-27 NBA season, a development that has caught many fantasy basketball managers off guard. The Minnesota Timberwolves center, who is 34 years old, has been a statistical fixture for over a decade, consistently providing rebounds, shot blocks, and high field goal percentages. Because of this predictability, he is often drafted for stability rather than surprise. However, his recent performance deviates significantly from his historical norms, raising questions about his current form.
Gobert has missed all 13 field goal attempts across a two-game span and has recorded only four blocks in seven games. His free throw shooting, typically a known weakness, has been particularly poor, with a 4-for-12 performance in a recent game. He even attempted two 3-pointers, a rarity given his career record of 0-for-22 from that distance. Although a back injury caused him to miss a weekend game, the drop in efficiency is notable. Last season, he led the league in field goal percentage at 68.2%, averaged a double-double in points and rebounds for the 10th straight year, and earned his ninth All-Defensive team selection.
In fantasy terms, Gobert averaged 33 points per game last season but is currently averaging just 19.6. While he remains a valuable asset in roto formats, his current production suggests he may not be the immediate lock he used to be. Managers are advised to hold onto him but exercise caution when trading for him, as his early season stats do not reflect his usual dominance.
New York Knicks forward Mikal Bridges is also off to a rough start. He did not attempt a single free throw through the first six games and 164 minutes of play. When he finally went to the line in a Monday game, he scored only six points in 16 minutes. Bridges is averaging 6.1 points per game and shooting 30.8% from the field, a stark contrast to his 33.3 fantasy points per game average last season. Despite his durability, his current numbers suggest he is underperforming relative to his previous value.
Memphis Grizzlies guard Cam Spencer has emerged as a pleasant surprise. Barely drafted in 2024, he started a recent game and recorded 13 assists without a turnover. While his upside is limited, his ability to contribute without hurting a lineup makes him a useful asset. Conversely, teammate Scotty Pippen Jr. is struggling with a poor start, highlighting the uneven nature of the Grizzlies backcourt.
New Orleans Pelicans forward Zion Williamson is leading the league in steals entering the week. He has recorded 19 steals in his first six games, a surprising stat line for a player who had 60 steals in 62 games last season. However, his rebounding numbers remain low, with an average of 5.3 rebounds per game. His inconsistent game logs and history of missed games make him a risky but potentially rewarding fantasy option.
Miami Heat center Bam Adebayo has shown signs of a resurgence. After a slow start, he posted strong numbers in games against the Hawks, Pacers, and Lakers, including a 51-point traditional scoring output in two games. The Heat appear to be integrating him more effectively alongside Giannis Antetokounmpo. Point guard Davion Mitchell is also performing well, averaging 16 points and 8 assists, which may position him for a Most Improved Player conversation.
Portland Trail Blazers guard Ja Morant is out for at least a month with a Grade 2 hamstring strain. He has averaged 15.8 points and 5.5 assists in four games this season. His injury history, which includes only 79 games over the past three seasons, remains a concern for fantasy managers who drafted him based on optimistic projections. He is expected to return in December, but his availability is not guaranteed.
LA Clippers forward Brandon Ingram is dealing with a partially torn Achilles and may return as early as next week. He has averaged at least 20 points, 5 rebounds, and 5 assists in each of the last seven seasons. With the Clippers lacking scoring depth, his return is expected to provide a significant boost. Managers are encouraged to stash him before his rostered percentage rises further, as his typical production is valuable even if not elite.
